An epic test of endurance and strength awaits 336 registered riders from over 40 nations as they prepare to take to take to the start line of the prestigious Haute Route Alpes from Sunday, August 25 to Saturday, August 31. Both 3-day and 7-day options await riders as they head out from the Palais des Sports in Megève feeling like a professional thanks to the top-level support and services on offer, leaving them to focus solely on tackling the legendary climbs and relishing in the camaraderie and shared experience that defines the event.
An impressive 56% of registered participants at Haute Route Alpes 2024 are returning alumni, demonstrating that the event truly ticks all the boxes both on and off the bike. Whether multiple podium finisher or first-timer, riders will be able to take advantage of services such as mechanical assistance, support cars and feed stations on the road, to the all-important post-stage massage, meals and logistical assistance.
Having been part of the Haute Route for over a decade, Race Director Jean-François Alcan has once again meticulously stitched together a route that will showcase the true cycling treasures of the area.
| Offering an insight into the highlights awaiting riders, he said:“One of the week’s standout moments will undoubtedly be Stage 2: the Col de la Loze from Brides-les-Bains – 26 kilometres, averaging 6.4%, with a brutal 1,679 metres of elevation gain, topping out at 2,305 metres. This climb isn’t just memorable – it’s impossible to forget. Don’t be fooled by the stats; this is the toughest climb of the week. And the next day won’t offer much rest either – with the legendary Col de la Madeleine, leading up to the iconic finish at the top of Alpe d’Huez. |
| Stage 4 will be the day of truth for the riders tackling the 7-day format: an individual time trial on the legendary Alpe d’Huez climb – 13.9 kilometres with an average gradient of 8.1%, hitting over 10% in some sections.” Continues Jean-François Alcan.The event is packed full of charm and challenge, with legendary climbs such as Col du Lautaret, Col du Granon and Col de la Bonette also promising unforgettable views at the summit. On the final day, riders will also tackle a classic from the 2020 Tour de France – Col Saint-Martin / Col de la Colmiane – before descending into the stunning city of Nice for a champions celebration and a gala dinner on the beach. |
| Check out each stage in more details below and sign-up via the link here. Stage 1 Date: Sunday, August 25 Location: Megeve to Megeve Distance: 99 KM Stage 2 Date: Monday, August 26 Location: Megève to Col de la Loze Distance: 114.5 KM Stage 3 Date: Tuesday, August 27 Location: Courchevel to l’alpe d’huez Distance: 137 KM Stage 4 Date: Wednesday, August 28 Location: Bourg d’Oisans to l’alpe d’huez Distance: 16 KM (Time Trial) Stage 5 Date: Thursday, August 29 Location: Alpe d’huez to Col du Granon Distance: 86 KM Stage 6 Date: Friday, August 30 Location: Briançon to Auron Distance: 138.5 KM Stage 7 Date: Saturday, August 31 Location: Auron to Nice Distance: 122 KM |
| Haute Route Alps: 25 – 31 August 2024 |
Cover Image courtesy of © Laurent Salino via Haute Route Alps PR